The tennis world was rocked by the announcement that Stefano Vukov, former coach of world No. 6 Elena Rybakina, has been provisionally suspended by the WTA amid an ongoing investigation into his conduct. This decision comes just days after the Kazakhstani tennis star revealed her intention to reinstate Vukov to her coaching team ahead of the 2025 Australian Open. The WTA confirmed the suspension as reported by the NY Times, citing alleged breaches of the tour’s Code of Conduct.
While the specifics of the complaint remain undisclosed, it is unclear whether Rybakina herself or another party initiated the investigation. Vukov, who played a crucial role in guiding the 25-year-old to her 2022 Wimbledon triumph, now faces restrictions that prevent him from obtaining WTA credentials or accessing courtside areas during matches.
During Elena Rybakina’s impressive run to the 2023 Australian Open final, renowned tennis analyst Pam Shriver voiced concerns about Vukov’s coaching demeanor, urging the young Kazakh star to seek a mentor who respects her. In response, Rybakina dismissed these claims as “disturbing” and “fake news,” standing firmly by her coach.
However, their professional relationship took an unexpected turn before the 2024 US Open when Rybakina announced their separation. She then brought in former Wimbledon champion and Novak Djokovic’s long-time coach, Goran Ivanisevic, as a temporary replacement. Despite parting ways with Vukov, Rybakina surprised many by attempting to reintroduce him to her team just weeks before the Australian Open.
The status of Ivanisevic’s role in Rybakina’s camp remains unclear. His representatives have confirmed that his position is currently under a trial period, with a final decision expected after the conclusion of the Australian Open.
Elena Rybakina ended her 2024 season on a high note with Ivanisevic by her side, but her recent decision to reintegrate Vukov into her coaching setup has sparked controversy. The WTA’s provisional suspension means Vukov cannot join the 2022 Wimbledon champion on the sidelines at the Australian Open, nor will he receive official credentials from Tennis Australia.
Despite the suspension, Vukov has denied any wrongdoing and insists he has not breached the WTA’s Code of Conduct. Rybakina, for her part, has consistently defended Vukov’s behavior, stating that she has never experienced any form of mistreatment from him. Sources close to the investigation suggest that the complaints against Vukov stem from third-party observations rather than direct grievances from the Kazakhstani tennis star herself.
This situation has drawn mixed reactions from the tennis community. Pam Shriver and other prominent voices have continued criticizing Vukov’s coaching methods, while Rybakina remains steadfast in her loyalty to her long-time mentor.
The unfolding saga between Elena Rybakina, Stefano Vukov, and the WTA highlights the complexities of player-coach relationships in professional tennis. As the investigation continues, the focus will remain on how the Former World No.3 navigates this challenging period both on and off the court. Whether Vukov will be cleared or permanently sidelined remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the start of the 2025 season will be anything but smooth for the former Wimbledon champion.
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